Renowned author J.K. Rowling recently conveyed a resolute message to “Harry Potter” stars Emma Watson and Daniel Radcliffe: any future apologies they may contemplate for criticizing her stance on transgender issues should be directed elsewhere.
Rowling’s assertion surfaced during an exchange on X platform, where a user, identifying partly as #FarRightHooligan, speculated that Watson and Radcliffe might offer Rowling a public apology, confident of her forgiveness.
However, Rowling responded, indicating otherwise: “Not safe, I’m afraid.” She suggested that celebrities who aligned with movements aiming to undermine women’s rights and endorsed the transitioning of minors should reserve their apologies for those who truly need them—specifically, for individuals who have detransitioned and for vulnerable women seeking refuge in single-sex spaces.
Tensions between Rowling and the aforementioned actors escalated following her viral defenses of biological women and her vocal criticism of unconditional acceptance within the transgender community, expressed primarily on the X platform.
Conversely, Watson and Radcliffe remained steadfast in their support for transgender rights. Watson emphasized her belief that “trans people are who they say they are” in a post on X following Rowling’s 2020 critique of an article’s terminology. She also extended her support and appreciation to her transgender followers.
Radcliffe, likewise, voiced his support by penning an essay for The Trevor Project, expressing solidarity with the transgender community and acknowledging the potential hurt caused by Rowling’s remarks.
Rowling’s recent remarks coincided with the release of a report led by pediatrician Dr. Hilary Cass, questioning the evidence supporting gender-affirming care for minors and urging caution regarding hormone treatment for adolescents. In response, England’s National Health Service (NHS) announced a temporary halt on initial appointments at adult clinics for teenagers under 18 and proposed a thorough review of adult gender services and hormone usage.
Furthermore, Rowling’s commentary on transgender issues thrust her into the spotlight amidst Scotland’s controversial hate crimes legislation. This law, capable of sentencing individuals to seven years in prison for inciting hatred against groups identifiable by specific characteristics, including transgender identity, elicited scrutiny over Rowling’s remarks. Despite criticism from First Minister Humza Yousaf, who deemed her speech “offensive,” authorities ultimately determined that it did not meet the threshold for criminal prosecution.
